Senator Ali Ndume has urged President Bola Tinubu to take the 2027 presidential election seriously, warning that a lack of backing from former President Muhammadu Buhari could pose significant challenges to his re-election efforts.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Ndume issued the warning after several prominent opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, visited Buhari in Kaduna. Many of these leaders have signaled their intention to challenge Tinubu in the upcoming election.
Ndume stressed that while Buhari is no longer in office, his influence, particularly among the northern electorate, remains considerable. He noted that Buhari’s grassroots support continues to have a significant political impact.
“Buhari’s influence has certainly diminished since he left office, which is natural, but his popularity among the northern populace, particularly the poor, remains unshaken,” Ndume said. “If he were to visit a market today, people would gather around him in droves.”
The senator, who also plans to visit Buhari, compared the former president’s loyal following to a “cult-like” movement, capable of swaying election outcomes. He emphasized that Tinubu cannot afford to disregard any voter, regardless of how small their individual influence might seem.
“Even my single vote matters to Tinubu, and the same applies to Buhari’s vote—it’s not just a number, it carries weight,” he added.
When asked about Buhari’s role in Tinubu’s 2023 victory, Ndume rejected claims that the former president withheld support. He argued that while Buhari did not actively campaign, he silently backed Tinubu throughout the election.
“Buhari is not one to fake support. If he’s not with you, he’ll make it clear,” Ndume said. “While he may not have been on the campaign trail, he was definitely behind Tinubu.”
On rumors that he might switch parties, including joining the PDP or SDP, Ndume dismissed the speculation. However, he cautioned that defections within the APC, especially from former CPC members, could have serious repercussions as the 2027 election approaches.
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